Naxal activities affecting education in Jharkhand

East Singhbhum District (Jharkhand), Feb.15 (ANI):Education in Jharkhand's East Singhbhum District is taking a major hit because of Naxals wanting to get rid of education institutions, especially in rural areas.

The rebels believe that this step will make it easier for them to brainwash and misguide illiterate people into joining their outfit.

Bhagabandi, a village in the district, is considered a Naxal stronghold.

For years, Naxals have been trying disrupt education in the area by blowing up school buildings and threatening teachers.

Despite all this the villagers are keen to educate their children so that they can have a better future.

We met Ampa Murmu, a villager, who has taken up the challenge of educating village children and protecting them from Naxals.

Though he is himself illiterate, Murmu runs the Bidu Chandan School and provides free education to over 150 students.

"The founder of this school, Ampa Murmu, has appointed us to teach children. He was illiterate. Once he was asked to write an application in an office and he failed to do so. That day he realized the importance of education and decided that children should be educated. Since this is a Naxal-affected area, we have been affected by Naxal activities. But we support education and will continue to teach the children for their overall development," said Ranm Chandra, the founder of the institution.

The Naxals are a threat to the Bidu Chandan School, but villagers continue to provide full support to the school.

Every villager contributes Rs.10 every week and donates rice every day as part of their effort to educate the children.

The children are happy at school and are looking forward a bright future.

"My parents have enrolled me in this school, so that we can learn here. Our teachers are always there for us. If we face any difficulty in understanding something we can approach them at any time and ask for help. We feel happy here," said Harihar Haembram, a student.

The Naxals are opposed to any development of the region.

They have been blowing up schools across Jharkhand, and in other states, to prevent children from getting education.

But the government's constant efforts to tackle the menace is now bearing fruit. (ANI)

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